Cake with vanilla cream and fruits

Vanilla Cream and Fruit Cake - an elegant delicacy, perfect for any special occasion. Whether you are celebrating an important event or simply want to indulge in a refined dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones. Moreover, the combination of fine vanilla cream, fluffy sponge cake, and fresh fruits will make every slice an explosion of flavors!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 5 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the sponge:*
- 400 g flour
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil is recommended for a neutral taste)
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 4 egg whites (make sure they are fresh)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 100 g ground walnuts (can be replaced with almonds for a different flavor)
- Zest of 2 oranges (add extra flavor by using organic orange zest)

*For the cream:*
- 500 ml sweet milk (use whole milk for a richer cream)
- 100 g sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 4 egg yolks
- 40 g cornstarch
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 150 g raspberries (or other favorite fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches)

*For the glaze:*
- 150 g dark chocolate (or cooking chocolate, depending on preferences)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 30 g butter

*For decoration:*
- 300 g milk chocolate
- Fresh fruits (raspberries, strawberries, or other favorite fruits)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the sponge:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Prepare a round baking pan (about 24 cm in diameter) by lining it with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the 3 egg yolks with the oil and sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Add the orange zest and ground walnuts, mixing well.
- Sift the flour together with the baking powder, then gradually incorporate it into the egg mixture, stirring with a spatula.
- Whip the 4 egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the previous mixture, being careful to keep the air in the egg whites. This will ensure a fluffy sponge.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the sponge to cool completely after baking.

2. Preparing the vanilla cream:
- In a saucepan, bring the milk with sugar and the vanilla bean to a boil, stirring constantly over low heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the cornstarch and a little cold milk to dilute them. Once the milk is boiling, slowly pour it into the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
- Put the mixture back on low heat and stir constantly until it thickens, achieving a creamy consistency. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- After the cream has cooled, add the softened butter and mix well until smooth.

3. Assembling the cake:
- Once the sponge has cooled completely, cut it into two horizontal slices. Place the first slice on a serving plate, pour half of the cream on top, then add a layer of fruit (for example, raspberries).
- Add the remaining cream and cover with the second slice of sponge. Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours to set.

4. Preparing the glaze:
- Melt the chocolate with the milk and butter over a double boiler, stirring constantly until you achieve a smooth glaze. Let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.
- Once the cake has cooled, pour the chocolate glaze and spread it evenly over the surface.
- Peel the chocolate sheet off the paper and use it to cover the cake. Garnish with fresh fruits and chocolate shavings or pralines for an elegant look.

5. Serving:
- Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Once ready, cut into slices and enjoy with a cup of tea or a fragrant coffee.

Tips and useful advice:
- Use quality ingredients, especially chocolate, to achieve the best flavors.
- If you want a moister cake, you can add a sugar syrup (made from water and sugar) over the cooled sponge before adding the cream.
- Experiment with different types of fruits, depending on the season. Peaches or strawberries are excellent in combination with vanilla cream.
- If you want a cake with a more intense vanilla flavor, add more vanilla extract or use fresh vanilla seeds in the cream.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour? Yes, but it will change the texture and taste of the cake, making it denser.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge and cream, but be careful that the cake does not become too dry.
- What other drinks pair well with this cake? An excellent combination is sparkling wine or fresh citrus juice.

The Vanilla Cream and Fruit Cake is not just a recipe, but a cooking experience. It is a dessert that brings together people, memories, and unforgettable moments. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy every step of this delicious process!